An Integrated, Phase-Controlled Power Divider for Metasurface Array Antennas

Abstract: We present the design of a phased, modulated, power distribution network for metasurface array antennas. The specific metasurface array design comprises a series of waveguides, each feeding a sub-array of dynamically tunable metamaterial elements that radiate at microwave (X-band) frequencies. To remain a one-port device, the composite array requires a power divider that can excite each branch waveguide with equal power. Further, the power divider must also apply a prescribed phase shift to each branch waveguide to mitigate metasurface-specific grating lobes. The presented design features hollow metal waveguides, with a conducting sheet patterned with metamaterial irises serving as the upper wall. A single hollow metal main waveguide feed is used to couple power to each of the branch waveguide. Carefully oriented slots control both the magnitude and phase of the field distributed from the main feed to each branch. All waveguides can be machined from a single block of metal, with a metamaterial-patterned printed circuit board laminated to the top of the assembly. The resulting design is mechanically robust and capable of high power operation while retaining the low-cost, low-power consumption, lightweight, and low-profile features common in metasurface antenna designs.